Indore: BCCI Condemns Alleged Stalking Incident Involving Australian Cricketers
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a strong condemnation following an alleged stalking and molestation incident involving two Australian women cricketers in Indore. The board vowed to review and enhance security measures in light of the upcoming World Cup knock-out stages.
The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday morning on Khajrana Road, where the athletes were walking from their hotel to a cafe. According to Sub-Inspector Nidhi Raghuvanshi, a man on a motorcycle followed the players and inappropriately touched one of them before fleeing the scene. Local police later apprehended the suspect.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia expressed that such incidents are unacceptable. “It is a very condemnable but stray incident. India is known for its hospitality and care. We have zero tolerance for such incidents. We appreciate the State Police of Madhya Pradesh for their prompt action in capturing the culprit. Let the law take its course to punish the offender. We assure to revisit our safety protocols if necessary to further tighten security,” Saikia stated.
MPCA’s Response
The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) also expressed its shock and dismay regarding the incident. The association emphasized that no woman should endure such trauma.
“MPCA is deeply pained and shocked by the disturbing incident involving the misconduct and inappropriate behavior towards two players from the Australian Women’s Cricket Team in Indore. No woman should ever have to endure such distressing events, and our thoughts and support are with those impacted by this troubling incident. This unfortunate event has deeply affected everyone at MPCA, who cherish the values of respect, safety, and dignity for women,” the MPCA remarked in their statement.
Following the incident, the Australian players reached out to their team security officer, Danny Simmons, who coordinated with local security personnel and arranged transport for their safety. Assistant Commissioner of Police Himani Mishra met with the players to record their statements and filed a first information report under Sections 74 (use of criminal force to outrage a woman’s modesty) and 78 (stalking) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the MIG police station.
